Improved discrimination of biogenic and diagenetic elements in Palaeolithic mammoth ivory and bone from Hohle Fels Cave in the Swabian Jura of Southwestern Germany

A new element-analytical study of Palaeolithic mammoth ivory and bone from Hohle Fels Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Swabian Jura, reveals no significant differences in diagenetic alterations between ivory and bone materials. The research used ion beam analysis (PIXE/PIGE) and micro-X-ray fluorescence (XRF) mappings to identify site-specific markers (Zn, Br, Sr) and diagenetic indicators (F). Findings confirm previous observations while providing additional criteria for distinguishing endogenous from exogenous elements in archaeological ivory, aiding conservation efforts. The study enhances understanding of how environmental interactions affect ancient artefacts, with implications for preserving similar objects worldwide.

Tranchant, L., Müller, K., Lemasson, Q., Pichon, L., Schöder, S., Conard, N. J., & Reiche, I. (2023). Improved discrimination of biogenic and diagenetic elements in Palaeolithic mammoth ivory and bone from Hohle Fels Cave in the Swabian Jura of Southwestern Germany. Quaternary International, 660, 4–12. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.quaint.2023.02.006